You have selected one of the finest marine power packages available. It incorporates numerous design features to
ensure operating ease and durability.
With proper care and maintenance, you will enjoy using this product for many boating seasons. To ensure maximum
performance and carefree use, we ask that you thoroughly read this manual.
The Operation and Maintenance Manual contains specific instructions for using and maintaining your product. We
suggest that this manual remain with the product for ready reference whenever you are on the water.
Thank you for purchasing one of our products. We sincerely hope your boating will be pleasant!
Mercury Marine, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, U.S.A.
Name / function:
John Pfeifer, President,
Mercury Marine
Read This Manual Thoroughly
IMPORTANT: If you do not understand any portion of this manual, contact your dealer. Your dealer can also provide a
demonstration of actual starting and operating procedures.
Notice
Throughout this publication, and on your power package, warnings, cautions, and notices, accompanied by the
8M0128975 617 eng
International Hazard Symbol !, may be used to alert the installer and user to special instructions concerning a
particular service or operation that may be hazardous if performed incorrectly or carelessly. Observe them carefully.
These safety alerts alone cannot eliminate the hazards that they signal. Strict compliance with these special instructions
while performing the service, plus common sense operation, are major accident prevention measures.
WARNING
!
Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
!
CAUTION
Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in minor or moderate injury.
NOTICE
Indicates a situation which, if not avoided, could result in engine or major component failure.
IMPORTANT: Identifies information essential to the successful completion of the task.
NOTE: Indicates information that helps in the understanding of a particular step or action.
IMPORTANT: The operator (driver) is responsible for the correct and safe operation of the boat, the equipment aboard,
and the safety of all occupants aboard. We strongly recommend that the operator read this Operation and Maintenance
Manual and thoroughly understand the operational instructions for the power package and all related accessories before
the boat is used.
WARNING
!
The engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals known to the state of California to cause cancer, birth
defects or other reproductive harm.
6.2L TowSport MPI
The serial numbers are the manufacturer’s keys to numerous engineering details that apply to your Mercury Marine
power package. When contacting Mercury Marine about service, always specify model and serial numbers.
Descriptions and specifications contained herein were in effect at the time this was approved for printing. Mercury
Marine, whose policies are based on continuous improvement, reserves the right to discontinue models at any time or to
change specifications or designs without notice and without incurring obligation.
The product you have purchased comes with a limited warranty from Mercury Marine; the terms of the warranty are set forth
in the Warranty Manual included with the product. The Warranty Manual contains a description of what is covered, what is not
covered, the duration of coverage, how to best obtain warranty coverage, important disclaimers and limitations ofdamages, and other related information. Please review this important information.
Mercury Marine products are designed and manufactured to comply with our own high quality standards, applicable industry
standards and regulations, as well as certain emissions regulations. At Mercury Marine every engine is operated and tested
before it is boxed for shipment to make sure that the product is ready for use. In addition, certain Mercury Marine products are
tested in a controlled and monitored environment, for up to 10 hours of engine run time, in order to verify and make a record of
compliance with applicable standards and regulations. All Mercury Marine product, sold as new, receives the applicable limited
warranty coverage, whether the engine participated in one of the test programs described above or not.
Alpha, Axius, Bravo One, Bravo Two, Bravo Three, Circle M with Waves Logo, K‑planes, Mariner, MerCathode, MerCruiser,
Mercury, Mercury with Waves Logo, Mercury Marine, Mercury Precision Parts, Mercury Propellers, Mercury Racing,
MotorGuide, OptiMax, Quicksilver, SeaCore, Skyhook, SmartCraft, Sport‑Jet, Verado, VesselView, Zero Effort, Zeus, #1 On the
Water and We're Driven to Win are registered trademarks of Brunswick Corporation. Pro XS is a trademark of Brunswick
Corporation. Mercury Product Protection is a registered service mark of Brunswick Corporation.
Identification Records
Please record the following applicable information:
MerCruiser
Engine Model and HorsepowerEngine Serial Number
Transom Assembly Serial Number (Sterndrive)Gear RatioSterndrive Unit Serial Number
Transmission Model (Inboard)Gear RatioTransmission Serial Number
Propeller NumberPitchDiameter
Hull Identification Number (HIN)Purchase Date
Boat ManufacturerBoat ModelLength
Exhaust Gas Emissions Certification Number (Europe Only)
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Section 1 - Getting to Know Your Power Package
Adaptive Speed Control (ASC).................................................. 2
This power package utilizes Adaptive Speed Control (ASC) to maintain the engine RPM that is demanded at the remote
control, regardless of the load change. As an example of how ASC functions, when the operator steers the boat into a hard turn
or is navigating at a slow on‑plane speed in following seas when boat control is needed without a lot of speed, the propulsion
control module will automatically adjust the engine to maintain the RPM without the operator changing the position of the
remote control throttle handle. ASC allows the operator to keep both hands on the steering wheel, which is safer, and the
operator can focus on the boating experience.
Identification
The serial numbers are the manufacturer's keys to numerous engineering details which apply to your MerCruiser power
package. When contacting MerCruiser about service, always specify model and serial numbers.
Engine Serial Number
The serial number is located in two places on the engine. One is on the engine specification decal located on the engine cover
or heat exchanger, and the other is secured to the starboard side of the engine block near the starter motor.
A quick reference code on the engine cover or heat exchanger can be used to access additional information about the engine
and safe boating practices.
Raw water cooled
a - Engine serial number
decal
b - Quick reference code
Freshwater cooled
a - Engine serial number decal
b - Quick reference code
Engine block location
a - Engine serial number plate
b - Flywheel housing
c - Starter motor
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c
a
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OFF
RUN
ATTACH LANYARD
Transmissions
ZF Marine Transmissions
The ZF Marine transmission identification plates have the gear ratio, serial number, and model number listed.
NOTE: A digital and mechanical version of each type of transmission is available.
ZF 45IV V-drive (digital), 46IV V-drive similar
a - Transmission identification plate
Lanyard Stop Switch
A lanyard switch is designed to shut down the engine in the event the operator unexpectedly moves away from the helm, as
may happen in an accidental ejection. The lanyard is connected to the operator's personal flotation device or wrist.
A decal near the lanyard stop switch reminds the operator to attach the lanyard to his or her personal flotation device or wrist.
Accidental ejections, such as falling overboard, are more likely to occur in:
•Low‑sided sport boats
•Bass boats
•High‑performance boats
Accidental ejections can also occur from:
ZF 45C (digital)63IV (digital)
a - Lanyard cord clip
b - Lanyard decal
c - Lanyard stop switch
90-8M0128975 eng JUNE 2017Page 3
Section 1 - Getting to Know Your Power Package
•Poor operating practices
•Sitting on the seat or gunwale at planing speeds
•Standing at planing speeds
•Operating at planing speeds in shallow or obstacle‑infested waters
•Releasing your grip on the steering wheel
•Carelessness caused by consuming alcohol or drugs
•High‑speed boating maneuvers
The lanyard is a cord usually between 122 and 152 cm (4 and 5 ft) long when stretched out, with an element on one end made
to be inserted into the switch, and a snap on the other end for attaching to the operator. The lanyard is coiled to make its at‑rest
condition as short as possible to minimize the likelihood of lanyard entanglement with nearby objects. Its stretched‑out length is
made to minimize the likelihood of accidental activation should the operator choose to move around in an area close to the
operator's normal position. The operator can shorten the lanyard by wrapping the lanyard around his wrist, or by tying a knot in
the lanyard.
Activation of the lanyard stop switch will stop the engine immediately, but the boat will continue to coast for some distance,
depending upon its velocity. While the boat is coasting, it can cause injury to anyone in the boat's path as it would under power.
Instruct all passengers on the proper starting and operating procedures should they be required to operate the boat in an
emergency.
WARNING
!
If the operator falls out of the boat, stop the engine immediately to reduce the possibility of serious injury or death from being
struck by the boat. Always properly connect the operator to the stop switch using a lanyard.
Accidental or unintended activation of the switch during normal operation is also a possibility. This could cause any, or all, of
the following potentially hazardous situations:
•Occupants could be thrown forward due to unexpected loss of forward motion, a particular concern for passengers in the
front of the boat who could be ejected over the bow and possibly struck by the propulsion or steering components.
•Loss of power and directional control in heavy seas, strong current, or high winds.
•Loss of control when docking.
WARNING
!
Avoid serious injury or death from deceleration forces resulting from accidental or unintended stop switch activation. The boat
operator should never leave the operator's station without first disconnecting the stop switch lanyard from the operator.
Keep the Lanyard Stop Switch and Lanyard Cord in Good Operating Condition
Before each use, ensure that the lanyard stop switch works properly. Start the engine, and then stop it by pulling the lanyard
cord. If the engine does not stop, have the switch repaired before operating the boat.
Before each use, inspect the lanyard cord to ensure that it is in good working condition and that there are no breaks, cuts, or
wear to the cord. Check that the clips on the ends of the cord are in good condition. Replace any damaged or worn lanyard
cords.
Instrumentation
VesselView
There are several VesselView products available. VesselView will display all engine information, fault codes, vessel
information, basic navigation data, and system information. When an operating system error or failure occurs, VesselView
displays an alarm message.
VesselView may also be connected to other vessel systems such as GPS, generators, and chartplotters. This vessel
integration allows the operator to monitor and control a wide range of vessel systems from a single display.
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Section 1 - Getting to Know Your Power Package
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a
b
c
c
50400
Refer to the VesselView operator's manual for more information.
VesselView
SmartCraft Digital Instruments
The SmartCraft instrument package augments the VesselView display. The instrument package may include:
•Tachometer
•Speedometer
•Engine coolant temperature
•Engine oil pressure
•Battery voltage
•Fuel consumption
•Engine operating hours
SmartCraft tachometer and speedometer
a - Tachometer
b - Speedometer
c - LCD display
The SmartCraft instrument package also aids in identifying fault codes associated with the engine audio warning system. The
SmartCraft instrument package displays critical engine alarm data and other potential problems on its LCD display.
For basic operation information on the SmartCraft instrument package and for details on the warning functions monitored by the
system, refer to the manual provided with your gauge package.
System Link Digital Instruments
Some instrumentation packages include system link gauges that augment the information provided by VesselView or a
SmartCraft system tachometer and speedometer. The owner and operator should be familiar with all the instruments and their
functions on the boat. Have your boat dealer explain the gauges and normal readings that appear on your boat.
90-8M0128975 eng JUNE 2017Page 5
Section 1 - Getting to Know Your Power Package
abc
d
37925
aa
a
b
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c
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58240
d
The following digital instruments may be included with your power package.
System Link digital gauges
ItemGaugeIndicates
aOil pressure gaugeEngine oil pressure
bVoltmeterBattery voltage
cWater temperature gaugeEngine operating temperature
dFuel gaugeQuantity of fuel in tank
Remote Controls (Non‑DTS Models)
Remote Control Features—Non‑DTS
Your boat may be equipped with one of the Mercury Precision or Quicksilver remote controls shown. If not, consult your dealer
for a description of the functions and operations of the remote control.
a - Trim/tilt switch
b - Ignition key switch—OFF, ON, START
c - Throttle only button
d - Lanyard stop switch
•
Trim/tilt switch ‑ Used to trim the drive during operation or raise the drive for trailering, launching, beaching, or shallow
water operation.
•
Throttle only button ‑ The throttle only button allows throttle advancement without shifting the engine. The throttle only
button disengages the shifting mechanism from the control handle. The throttle only button can be pressed and held in only
when the remote control handle is in the neutral position. While holding the throttle only button in, move the throttle handle
forward to assist in starting the engine.
•
Lanyard stop switch (if equipped) ‑ The purpose of a lanyard stop switch is to shut down the engine when the operator
moves far enough away from the operator's position to activate the switch. A lanyard stop switch can be installed as an
accessory, generally on the dashboard or side adjacent to the operator's position.
•
Control handle ‑ Operation of the shift and throttle is controlled by the movement of the control handle. Push the control
handle forward from neutral with a quick firm motion to the first detent for forward gear. Continue pushing forward to
increase speed. Pull the control handle back from neutral with a quick firm motion to the first detent for reverse gear.
Continue pulling back to increase speed.
IMPORTANT: Forcing the shift mechanism while the engine is not operating can result in product damage.
Gear Shifting
IMPORTANT: Observe the following:
•
Never shift the drive into gear unless the engine speed is at idle.
•
Do not shift the drive into reverse when the engine is not running.
•Your power package has three gear shift positions to provide operation: forward (F), neutral (N), and reverse (R).
•When shifting, always stop at the neutral position and allow the engine speed to return to idle.
•Always shift into gear with a quick motion.
Page 690-8M0128975 eng JUNE 2017
Section 1 - Getting to Know Your Power Package
N
RF
58239
•After shifting into gear, advance the lever further to increase speed.
Remote Controls (DTS Models)
Remote Controls
IMPORTANT: Your boat must be equipped with a Mercury Marine electronic remote control. Start in gear protection is provided
by this control system and prevents the engine from starting when the control is actuated in forward or reverse. Refer to the
Mercury Precision Parts/Quicksilver Accessories Guide.
The digital throttle and shift (DTS) system required to operate this engine package provides start and stop functions, throttle
control, shift control, start in gear protection, and emergency lanyard stop functions. The DTS system works with specialized
helm components such as a command module kit and electronic remote control. Consult your dealer for a description and/or
demonstration of your remote control.
Panel Mount Features
d
c
b
e
-
+
f
a
g
Lanyard stop switch ‑Turns the ignition off whenever the operator (when attached to the lanyard) moves far enough awayfrom the operator's position to activate the switch. Refer to Lanyard Stop Switch for information on the use of this switch.
Control handle ‑Operation of the shift and throttle are controlled by the movement of the control handle. Push the control
handle forward from neutral with a quick, firm motion to the first detent for forward gear. Continue pushing forward to increase
speed. Pull the control handle back from neutral with a quick, firm motion to the first detent for reverse gear and continue
pushing back to increase speed.
Shift lock ‑ Pressing the shift lock allows the engine to shift. The shift lock must always be pressed when moving the control
handle out of the neutral position.
Trim/tilt switch (if equipped) ‑Refer to Power Trim.
Throttle only button ‑Allows engine throttle advancement without shifting the engine. The throttle only button can be
depressed only when the remote control is in the neutral position, and should only be used to assist in starting or warming up
the engine.
Start/stop button ‑Allows the boat operator to start or stop the engine without using the ignition key.
Detent tension adjustment screw ‑This screw can be adjusted to increase or decrease the effort required to move the control
handle out of the detent positions (cover must be removed). Turning the screw clockwise will increase tension.
Control handle friction adjustment screw ‑ This screw can be adjusted to increase or decrease the tension on the control
handle (cover must be removed). This will help prevent unwanted motion of the handle in rough water. Turn the screw
clockwise to increase tension and counterclockwise to decrease tension.
3409
a - Lanyard stop switch
b - Control handle
c - Shift lock
d - Trim/tilt switch
e - Throttle only button
h
f - Start/stop button
g - Detent tension adjustment screw
h - Control handle friction adjustment screw
90-8M0128975 eng JUNE 2017Page 7
Section 1 - Getting to Know Your Power Package
33173
F
R
a
b
e
c
d
TowSports Panel Mount Features
a - Lanyard stop switch
b - Control handle and shift lock
c - Detent tension adjustment screw
d - Control handle tension adjustment screw
e - Throttle only button (on helm‑mounted CAN
pad)
Lanyard stop switch—The lanyard turns the ignition off whenever the operator moves far enough away from the operator's
position to activate the switch, assuming the operator is attached. Refer to Lanyard Stop Switch for more information.
Control handle—The control handle controls the shift and throttle. Push the control handle forward from neutral with a quick,
firm motion to the first detent for forward gear. Continue pushing forward to increase speed. Pull the control handle back from
neutral with a quick, firm motion to the first detent for reverse gear and continue pushing back to increase speed.
Shift lock—The shift lock allows the engine to shift. The shift lock must always be pressed when moving the control handle out
of the neutral position.
Throttle only button (optional)—The throttle only button allows engine throttle advancement without shifting the engine. The
throttle only button can be pressed only when the remote control is in the neutral position, and should only be used to assist in
starting or warming up the engine. The TowSport panel mount remote control may use an optional helm‑mounted CAN pad for
throttle only remote control operation. The hand throttle on and off switch kit with the foot throttle can also be used with the
TowSport panel mount control.
Throttle only operation—The throttle only operation allows engine throttle advancement without shifting the engine. Throttle
only operation is initiated when the ignition key switch is in the OFF position and the remote control is in the idle/forward
position. Refer to Throttle Only Operation—TowSport Panel Mount in Section 2. The throttle only feature should only be
used to assist in starting or warming up the engine.
Detent tension adjustment screw—Adjust this screw to increase or decrease the effort required to move the control handle
out of the detent positions. Remove the cover and turn the screw clockwise to increase tension.
Control handle tension adjustment screw—Adjust this screw to increase or decrease the tension on the control handle. This
reduces unwanted motion of the handle in rough water. Remove the cover and turn the screw clockwise to increase tension
and counterclockwise to decrease tension.
Electrical System Overload Protection
If an electrical system overload occurs, a fuse will fail or the circuit breaker will open. The cause must be found and corrected
before replacing the fuse or resetting the circuit breaker.
NOTE: In an emergency, when you must operate the engine and cannot locate the cause for the high current draw, turn off or
disconnect all accessories connected to the engine and instrumentation wiring. Reset the circuit breaker. If the breaker remains
open, the electrical overload has not been eliminated. Contact your authorized dealer.
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b
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b
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To access the circuit breaker and fuses, remove the outside engine cover. Pull the outside engine cover up to remove it from
the four rubber mount grommets.
The circuit breaker provides protection for the engine wiring harness and the instrumentation power lead.
All of the engine protection fuses are located at the front of the engine. To access the fuses, disengage the fuse holders from
the electrical plate assembly.
Mechanical engine, freshwater
cooled shown, others similar
a - Oxygen sensor fuses (4)
b - Spare fuses
c - Engine and trim relay fuse
d - Fuel injector fuse
e - Alternator and fuel pump relay
fuse
f - Ignition coil fuse
g - Malfunction indicator lamp
(MIL) fuse
90-8M0128975 eng JUNE 2017Page 9
Section 1 - Getting to Know Your Power Package
a
b
c
b
d
e
f
b
g
h
61448
a
b
56871
a
b
c
32206
DTS engine, freshwater cooled
shown, others similar
a - Oxygen sensor fuses (4)
b - Spare fuses
c - Engine and trim relay fuse
d - DTS helm power fuse
e - Fuel injector fuse
f - Alternator and fuel pump relay
fuse
g - Ignition coil fuse
h - Malfunction indicator lamp
(MIL) fuse
A 90‑amp fuse located near the flame arrestor, protects the engine power harness if an electrical overload occurs. The fuse is
translucent so it can be inspected if the fuse has failed and is open.
a - 90‑amp fuse
b - Hot stud
A 15‑amp fuse located at the aft end of the engine, protects the accessory circuits.
a - Cover
b - 15‑amp fuse
c - Accessory harness
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a
b
c
This power package uses a clean power harness that is connected to the engine starting battery. This clean power harness
minimizes an excessive voltage drop to the engine and drive digital control electrical system. This harness is protected by a
5‑amp fuse and is located near the engine starting battery.
a - 5‑amp fuse
b - Positive battery terminal (harness lead with fuse)
c - Negative battery terminal
Visual and Audio Warning Systems
Service Engine Light and OBD‑M MIL Kit
Boats powered by emissions control technology (ECT) catalyzed engines must be equipped with a SmartCraft‑enabled gauge
capable of displaying the service engine icon, or a dash‑mounted service engine light. Malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) kits
containing a dash‑mounted service engine light and a special harness that connects to the engine harness may be purchased
separately.
The service engine icon or MIL will provide a visual indication of a malfunction with the engine's emission control system and
will remain illuminated while the OBD‑M fault is active.
SC 1000 gauge and service engine light
Testing the OBD-M Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL)
1.Turn the ignition switch to the on position without cranking the engine.
2.The service engine icon and MIL will remain illuminated for four seconds if the visual indication system is functioning
correctly.
Audio Warning System
IMPORTANT: The audio warning system alerts the operator that a problem has occurred. It does not protect the engine from
damage.
Most faults cause the warning horn circuit to activate. How the warning horn activates depends on the severity of the problem.
There are two warning horn states:
•Caution
•Critical
There is also an alarm that sounds if the helm has not been properly configured using the G3 service tool.
90-8M0128975 eng JUNE 2017Page 11
Section 1 - Getting to Know Your Power Package
ONON
OFF
ON
OFF
ON
OFF
ON
OFF
ON
OFF
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
OFF
33402
a
b
53403
a
b
ON
6
OFF
ONON
OFF
ON
OFF
ON
OFF
ON
OFF
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
OFF
53402
a
b
Caution
If a caution state is detected, the audio warning system will sound for six one‑second intervals.
a - Horn (on or off)
b - Time (in seconds)
Critical
If a critical state is detected, the audio warning system sounds for six seconds and then turns off.
a - Horn (on or off)
b - Time (in seconds)
Nonconfigured Alarm–DTS Only
If the helm has not been properly configured using the G3 service tool, the audio warning system will sound for five one‑second
intervals.
a - Horn (on or off)
b - Time (in seconds)
Testing the Audio Warning System
1.Turn the key switch to the on position without cranking the engine.
2.Listen for the audio alarm. The alarm will sound if the system is functioning correctly.
Guardian Strategy
The MerCruiser Engine Guardian system reduces the potential for engine damage by restricting engine power when the PCM
detects a potential problem. Below are some examples of what Engine Guardian monitors:
•Oil pressure
•Engine overspeed
•Exhaust manifold temperature
•Transmission oil temperature
IMPORTANT: Engine Guardian can reduce power anywhere from 100% to idle, depending on the severity of the problem. If
forced to idle, boat speed might not respond to throttle operation.
The PCM stores the fault for diagnostics. For example, if the water inlet becomes partially blocked, Engine Guardian reduces
the available power level of the engine to help prevent damage from decreased water flow to the engine. If the debris passes
through, and full water flow is restored, Engine Guardian restores engine power to normal.
After the Break‑In Period............................................... 21
End of First Season Checkup........................................ 22
2
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Section 2 - On the Water
Safe Boating Recommendations
To safely enjoy the waterways, familiarize yourself with local and all other governmental boating regulations and restrictions
and consider the following suggestions.
Know and obey all nautical rules and laws of the waterways.
•We recommend that all powerboat operators complete a boating safety course. In the U.S., the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary,
the Power Squadron, the Red Cross, and your state or provincial boating law enforcement agency provide courses. For
more information in the U.S., call the Boat U.S. Foundation at 1‑800‑336‑BOAT (2628).
Perform safety checks and required maintenance.
•Follow a regular schedule and ensure that all repairs are properly made.
Check safety equipment onboard.
•Here are some suggestions of the types of safety equipment to carry when boating:
Approved fire extinguishers
Signal devices: flashlight, rockets or flares, flag, and whistle or horn
Tools necessary for minor repairs
Anchor and extra anchor line
Manual bilge pump and extra drain plugs
Drinking water
Radio
Paddle or oar
Spare propeller, thrust hubs, and an appropriate wrench
First aid kit and instructions
Waterproof storage containers
Spare operating equipment, batteries, bulbs, and fuses
Compass and map or chart of the area
Personal flotation device (one per person onboard)
Watch for signs of weather change and avoid foul weather and rough‑sea boating.
Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return.
Passenger boarding.
•Stop the engine whenever passengers are boarding, unloading, or are near the back (stern) of the boat. Shifting the drive
unit into neutral is not sufficient.
Use personal flotation devices.
•Federal law requires that there be a U.S. Coast Guard‑approved life jacket (personal flotation device), correctly sized and
readily accessible for every person onboard, plus a throwable cushion or ring. We strongly advise that everyone wear a life
jacket at all times while in the boat.
Prepare other boat operators.
•Instruct at least one person onboard in the basics of starting and operating the engine and boat handling in case the driver
becomes disabled or falls overboard.
Do not overload your boat.
•Most boats are rated and certified for maximum load (weight) capacities (refer to your boat's capacity plate). Know your
boat's operating and loading limitations. Know if your boat will float if it is full of water. When in doubt, contact your
authorized Mercury Marine dealer or the boat manufacturer.
Ensure that everyone in the boat is properly seated.
•Do not allow anyone to sit or ride on any part of the boat that was not intended for such use. This includes the backs of
seats, gunwales, transom, bow, decks, raised fishing seats, and any rotating fishing seat. Passengers should not sit or ride
anywhere that sudden unexpected acceleration, sudden stopping, unexpected loss of boat control, or sudden boat
movement could cause a person to be thrown overboard or into the boat. Ensure that all passengers have a proper seat
and are in it before any boat movement.
Never operate a boat while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. It is the law.
•Alcohol or drugs can impair your judgment and greatly reduce your ability to react quickly.
Know your boating area and avoid hazardous locations.
Page 1490-8M0128975 eng JUNE 2017
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co
co
co
co
co
co
co
co
co
co
co
co
co
co
co
co
co
co
co
co
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Be alert.
•The operator of the boat is responsible by law to maintain a proper lookout by sight and hearing. The operator must have
an unobstructed view particularly to the front. No passengers, load, or fishing seats should block the operator's view when
the boat is above idle or planing transition speed. Watch out for others, the water, and your wake.
Never drive your boat directly behind a water skier.
•Your boat traveling at 40 km/h (25 mph) will overtake a fallen skier who is 61 m (200 ft) in front of you in five seconds.
Watch fallen skiers.
•When using your boat for waterskiing or similar activities, always keep a fallen or down skier on the operator's side of the
boat while returning to attend to the skier. The operator should always have the down skier in sight and never back up to
the skier or anyone in the water.
Report accidents.
•Boat operators are required by law to file a boating accident report with their state boating law enforcement agency when
their boat is involved in certain boating accidents. A boating accident must be reported if 1) there is loss of life or probable
loss of life, 2) there is personal injury requiring medical treatment beyond first aid, 3) there is damage to boats or other
property where the damage value exceeds $500.00, or 4) there is complete loss of the boat. Seek further assistance from
local law enforcement.
Carbon Monoxide Exposure
Be Alert To Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a deadly gas that is present in the exhaust fumes of all internal combustion engines, including the
engines that propel boats, and the generators that power boat accessories. By itself, CO is odorless, colorless, and tasteless,
but if you can smell or taste engine exhaust, you are inhaling CO.
Early symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning, which are similar to the symptoms of seasickness and intoxication, include
headache, dizziness, drowsiness, and nausea.
WARNING
!
Inhaling engine exhaust gases can result in carbon monoxide poisoning, which can lead to unconsciousness, brain damage,
or death. Avoid exposure to carbon monoxide.
Stay clear from exhaust areas when engine is running. Keep the boat well‑ventilated while at rest or underway.
Stay Clear of Exhaust Areas
Engine exhaust gases contain harmful carbon monoxide. Avoid areas of concentrated engine exhaust gases. When engines
are running, keep swimmers away from the boat, and do not sit, lie, or stand on swim platforms or boarding ladders. While
underway, do not allow passengers to be positioned immediately behind the boat (platform dragging, teak/body surfing). This
dangerous practice not only places a person in an area of high engine exhaust concentration, but also subjects them to the
possibility of injury from the boat propeller.
Good Ventilation
Ventilate the passenger area, open side curtains or forward hatches to remove fumes.
Example of desired air flow through the boat:
90-8M0128975 eng JUNE 2017Page 15
Section 2 - On the Water
21626
a
b
a
b
43368
Poor Ventilation
Under certain running or wind conditions, permanently enclosed or canvas enclosed cabins or cockpits with insufficient
ventilation may draw in carbon monoxide. Install one or more carbon monoxide detectors in your boat.
Although the occurrence is rare, on a very calm day, swimmers and passengers in an open area of a stationary boat that
contains or is near a running engine may be exposed to a hazardous level of carbon monoxide.
1.Examples of poor ventilation while the boat is stationary:
a - Operating the engine when the boat
is moored in a confined space
b - Mooring close to another boat that
has its engine operating
2.Examples of poor ventilation while the boat is moving:
a - Operating the boat with the
trim angle of the bow too
high
b - Operating the boat with no
forward hatches open
(station wagon effect)
Basic Boat Operation
Launching and Boat Operation
IMPORTANT: Install bilge drain plug prior to launching boat.
Operation Chart
Operation Chart
BEFORE STARTINGAFTER STARTINGWHILE UNDERWAYAFTER STOPPING
Observe all gauges to
Install bilge drain plug.
Open engine hatch.
Turn battery switch on.
Operate bilge blowers.Check steering operation.Close seacock, if equipped.
Open fuel shut off valve.
Open seacock, if equipped.Drain bilge.
Close the drain system.
Check the engine oil.
Perform all other checks specified by
your dealer and/or boatbuilder.
Listen for audio warning alarm to sound
when the ignition switch is in the "ON"
position.
check condition of engine. If
not normal, stop engine.
Check for fuel, oil, water,
fluid and exhaust leaks.
Check shift and throttle
control operation.
Observe all gauges to
check condition of
engine. If not normal,
stop engine.
Listen for the audio
alarm.
Turn ignition key to the
"OFF" position.
Turn battery switch to the
"OFF" position.
Close fuel shut off valve.
Flush cooling system if in
saltwater.
Starting and Stopping the Engine
Starting the Engine
1.
Check all items listed in the Operation Chart.
Page 1690-8M0128975 eng JUNE 2017
Section 2 - On the Water
2.Place the remote control handle in neutral.
NOTICE
Without sufficient cooling water, the engine, the water pump, and other components will overheat and suffer damage. Provide
a sufficient supply of water to the water inlets during operation.
WARNING
!
Explosive fumes contained in the engine compartment can cause serious injury or death from fire or explosion. Before
starting the engine, operate the bilge blower or vent the engine compartment for at least five minutes.
NOTE: This power package is equipped with SmartStart. The SmartStart feature incorporates push button starting. Rather
than holding the start button or key switch to start the engine and then releasing it when the engine starts, SmartStart
completely controls the starting process. When the start button is pushed, the PCM signals the engine to start. If the
engine does not start, the starting process times out after a few seconds or when the engine reaches 400 RPM. Attempting
to start the engine with the engine already running will turn the engine off.
3.Turn the ignition key to the RUN position.
4.Turn the ignition key switch to the START position then release, or press the start/stop button and release. If the engine is
cold, allow the engine to operate at idle for 6–10 minutes or until the engine temperature reaches 60° C (140° F).
5.If the engine does not start after three attempts:
a.Push the throttle only button and position the remote control handle or throttle lever to the 1/4 throttle position.
b.Turn the ignition key to START. Release the key when the engine starts and allow the switch to return to the ON
position.
6.If the engine does not start after step 5:
a.Move the remote control handle throttle lever to the full throttle position, then return to 1/4 throttle.
b.Turn the ignition key to START. Release the key when the engine starts and allow the switch to return to the ON
position.
7.Inspect the power package for fuel, oil, water, and exhaust leaks.
8.Move the control handle with a firm, quick motion forward to shift to forward gear, or backward to shift to reverse. After
shifting, advance the throttle to the desired setting.
NOTICE
Shifting into gear at engine speeds above idle will damage the drive system. Shift the drive into gear only when the engine is
operating at idle.
Stopping the Engine
1.Move the remote control handle to neutral/idle and allow the engine to slow to idle speed. If the engine has been operated
at high speed for a long period of time, allow the engine to cool at idle speed for 3–5 minutes.
2.The engine can be stopped by any one of the following four methods:
a.Move the ignition key switch to the ACCESSORY or OFF position. The engine will stop and the control system will be
deactivated.
b.Press the start/stop button, if equipped. The engine will stop and the control system will remain active.
c.Momentarily move the ignition key switch to the START position, then release immediately. The control system will
recognize that the engine is running and will stop the engine. The control system will remain active. Moving the
ignition key switch to the START position again will issue a start request to the control system and the control system
will start the engine, if appropriate.
d.Activate the lanyard stop switch, if equipped. The engine will stop, but the control system will remain active. The
control system will not allow the engine to start if the lanyard stop switch is activated.
Throttle Only Operation—TowSport Panel Mount
NOTE: When operating in throttle only (neutral) mode, the DTS control system will not allow the engine speed to increase
above 3500 RPM.
WARNING
!
The Digital Throttle and Shift (DTS) Zero Effort control can shift the engine or transmission at speeds greater than idle,
causing unexpected boat movement, which may result in injury, death, or property damage due to loss of boat control.
Always place the throttle control lever in the idle position before moving the shift control lever into forward or reverse gear
position.
90-8M0128975 eng JUNE 2017Page 17
Section 2 - On the Water
21604
TowSport Panel‑Mount Remote Controls: TowSport panel‑mount remote controls are not equipped with a throttle only
button. To activate throttle only mode:
1.
Refer to Remote Controls section for remote control features.
2.Move the ignition key switch to the "OFF" position.
3.Move the control lever to the idle‑forward position.
4.Start the engine.
5.Advancing the control lever beyond the idle‑forward position will cause engine speed to increase.
IMPORTANT: Moving the control lever back to the idle‑neutral position will deactivate the throttle only mode and allow the
engine to shift into gear.
6.Deactivate throttle only mode by moving the control lever to the idle‑neutral position. Moving the control lever from the
idle‑neutral position to the idle‑forward or idle‑reverse position without repeating steps 1. through 4. will shift the unit into
the chosen gear.
Freezing Temperature Operation
IMPORTANT: If the boat is operated during periods of freezing temperature, precautions must be taken to prevent freeze
damage to the power package. Damage caused by freezing is not covered by Mercury MerCruiser Limited Warranty.
Drain Plug and Bilge Pump
The engine compartment in your boat is a natural place for water to collect. For this reason, boats are normally equipped with a
drain plug and/or a bilge pump. It is very important to check these items on a regular basis to ensure that the water level does
not come into contact with your power package. Components on your engine will be damaged if submerged. Damage caused
by submersion is not covered by the Mercury MerCruiser Limited Warranty.
Protecting People in the Water
While You Are Cruising
It is very difficult for a person in the water to take quick action to avoid a boat heading in their direction, even at slow speeds.
Always slow down and exercise extreme caution any time you are boating in an area where there might be people in the water.
Whenever a boat is moving (even coasting) and the gear shift is in neutral, there is sufficient force by the water on the propeller
to cause the propeller to rotate. This neutral propeller rotation can cause serious injury.
While Boat Is Stationary
WARNING
!
A spinning propeller, a moving boat, or any solid device attached to the boat can cause serious injury or death to swimmers.
Stop the engine immediately whenever anyone in the water is near your boat.
Shift into neutral and shut off the engine before allowing people to swim or be in the water near your boat.
High‑Speed and High‑Performance Operation
If your boat is considered a high‑speed or high‑performance boat and you are unfamiliar with its operation, we recommend that
you never operate it at its high speed capability without first requesting an initial orientation and demonstration ride with your
dealer or an operator experienced with your boat. For additional information, refer to Hi‑Performance Boat Operation booklet
(90‑849250R03) from your dealer, distributor, or Mercury Marine.
Passenger Safety in Pontoon Boats and Deck Boats
Whenever the boat is in motion, observe the location of all passengers. Do not allow any passengers to stand or use seats
other than those designated for traveling faster than idle speed. A sudden reduction in boat speed, such as plunging into a
large wave or wake, a sudden throttle reduction, or a sharp change of boat direction, could throw them over the front of the
boat. Falling over the front of the boat between the two pontoons will position them to be run over.
Page 1890-8M0128975 eng JUNE 2017
Section 2 - On the Water
Boats Having an Open Front Deck
No one should ever be on the deck in front of the fence while the boat is in motion. Keep all passengers behind the front fence
or enclosure.
Persons on the front deck could easily be thrown overboard or persons dangling their feet over the front edge could get their
legs caught by a wave and pulled into the water.
mc79555-1
WARNING
!
Sitting or standing in an area of the boat not designed for passengers at speeds above idle can cause serious injury or death.
Stay back from the front end of deck boats or raised platforms and remain seated while the boat is in motion.
Boats With Front‑Mounted, Raised Pedestal Fishing Seats
Elevated fishing seats are not intended for use when the boat is traveling faster than idle or trolling speed. Sit only in seats
designated for traveling at faster speeds.
Any unexpected, sudden reduction in boat speed could result in the elevated passenger falling over the front of the boat.
mc79557-1
Wave and Wake Jumping
WARNING
!
Wave or wake jumping can cause serious injury or death from occupants being thrown within or out of the boat. Avoid wave
or wake jumping whenever possible.
mc79680-1
Operating recreational boats over waves and wakes is a natural part of boating. However, when this activity is done with
enough speed to force the boat hull partially or completely out of the water, certain hazards arise, particularly when the boat
reenters the water.
The primary concern is the boat changing direction while in the midst of the jump. In such cases the landing may cause the
boat to violently veer in a new direction. Such a sharp change in direction or turn can cause occupants to be thrown out of their
seats or out of the boat.
There is another less common hazardous result from allowing your boat to launch off of a wave or wake. If the bow of your boat
pitches down far enough while airborne, upon water contact it may penetrate under the water surface and submarine for an
instant. This will bring the boat nearly to a stop in an instant and can send the occupants flying forward. The boat may also veer
sharply to one side.
90-8M0128975 eng JUNE 2017Page 19
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